Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Myrobalan (commonly referring to the dried fruit from Terminalia chebula, also known as Haritaki) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Its application for oral health, including the treatment of canker sores (aphthous ulcers), is primarily justified by traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. In Ayurveda, myrobalan is valued for its purported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, which are believed to help soothe oral mucosa and promote healing of ulcers. Traditional formulations sometimes involve rinsing the mouth with myrobalan decoctions or applying its powder directly to lesions.

While a few laboratory and animal studies have shown that extracts of Terminalia chebula possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, direct clinical evidence supporting its efficacy specifically for canker sores in humans is limited. Some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest potential benefits, but these are not sufficient for a high evidence rating. In summary, the use of myrobalan for canker sores is mainly rooted in traditional medicine, with modest preliminary support from basic research, but lacks strong clinical validation.

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Nature's Sunshine Skin Detox (Ayurvedic)